Articles

Common mistakes inventors make when filing a provisional patent

A provisional patent application carries more weight than many inventors realise. Because they're relatively inexpensive and informal, there's a widespread belief they're simple to get right — but mistakes at this stage can have lasting consequences for your patent protection.

How to choose between a patent and a trade secret in Australia

Patents and trade secrets are two of the most powerful tools for protecting your competitive advantage, but they operate in fundamentally different ways. Choosing the wrong one can be costly, so understanding how each works under Australian law is essential to making a strategic decision that aligns with your business goals.

How to commercialise your patent: a practical guide

Securing a patent is a significant achievement, but it's only the beginning. A patent doesn't generate revenue on its own — the real value lies in what you do with that right. Commercialisation is where your invention starts working for you, and it requires just as much strategic thinking as the invention itself.

Software patents in Australia: what you need to know in 2026

The landscape for software patents in Australia has shifted considerably over the past decade. If you're a developer, startup founder, or tech entrepreneur wondering whether your software innovation can be patented, you're not alone — and the answer is more nuanced than you might expect.

Trade mark vs business name: understanding the difference

Many Australian business owners assume that registering a business name gives them legal ownership over that name. It's one of the most common misunderstandings we encounter, and it can lead to costly surprises. Understanding the distinction between a business name and a trade mark early can save you a great deal of trouble.

How to File a Provisional Patent in Australia

A provisional patent application is the recommended first step in protecting an invention in Australia. It establishes your priority date and provides 12 months of patent pending status, giving you time to commercialise, seek investment, and refine your product without jeopardising your rights.